When it comes to international business travel, the United States theoretically still does have a few friends out there in the world. Citizens of these friendly countries are permitted to travel to the United States as a visitor for business or a visitor for pleasure without needing to appear in person at a U.S. consulate to obtain a visa stamp before travel. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP), established in Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, currently applies to citizens of 38 countries who meet certain criteria regarding their travel documents and background qualifications. Countries participating in the VWP must offer reciprocal visa-free travel to U.S. citizens, with similar requirements and terms. Most European countries, along with Australia, New Zealand, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei and Chile, as well as Taiwan, qualify for participation.

The vetting of visitors who wish to participate in the VWP takes place online, before travel, through ESTA, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization. With some exceptions, ESTA travel authorizations are approved or denied within 72 hours (and sometimes within minutes) and are valid for two years. Note however, that ESTA travel authorization does not guarantee admission to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers determine admissibility upon a visitor’s arrival at an airport or other port of entry.